Community & Business
17 June, 2026
Driving program keeps youth on the right track
YOUNG drivers across the region will have the opportunity to gain live-saving road safety skills when the Rotary Youth Driver Awareness (RYDA) program returns to Mareeba this month.
Delivered annually by Road Safety Education and supported by the Queensland Police Service, the program aims to equip senior students with practical strategies and awareness to become safer and more responsible as drivers and passengers.
With more than 200 Australians aged 17-25 dying on the roads last year, the full-day program will focus on critical issues facing these young road users such as speed, distraction, fatigue, peer pressure, decision-making, and risk-taking behaviours.
Through interactive workshops, real-life stories, and engaging activities, students will be encouraged to think beyond simply passing a driving test and instead develop lifelong safe driving habits.
Local Rotary representatives said the program plays an important role in reducing road trauma among young people in regional communities.
“RYDA gives students practical tools and real-world perspectives that can genuinely save lives,” a Rotary spokesperson said.
“For many young people, this program can change the way they think about driving, passengers, and personal responsibility on the road.
“Rotary is proud to support youth education initiatives that create safer communities and help young people make informed choices both on and off the road.”
The RYDA program has been successfully delivered to thousands of students across Australia and continues to receive strong support from schools, emergency services, and community organisations.
The Mareeba event, which will be held on Monday 22 June at the Mareeba Rugby League Club, will involve local schools.
